Amazon and Walmart Remain Silent on Racist Caricature

By Louis Chan
AsAmNews National Correspondent

Two giants in the commerce world have so far not commented about the use of a racist caricature featured on items they sell.

AsAmNews has reached out to both Amazon and Walmart, but have yet to hear back.

Walmart did apparently remove the novelty button for sale after contacted by AsAmNews Sunday. The original link to the item is now broken and it could not be found elsewhere. However, it has not confirmed the removal nor has it offered an apology or even commented on the controversy.

The button mocks the accent of some Asians with the slogan “RY you no call?” It also includes a weak attempt to draw a caricature of an Asian with buckteeth and exaggerated slanted eyes reminiscent of images seen of Japanese Americans during WWII and the red scare of the 1950s.

A t-shirt sold by Amazon features the same image. That item called “Stupid Factory Men’s Ry You No Call T-Shirt, Mustard, Medium” is currently out of stock, but remains on Amazon’s website. We contacted Amazon yesterday, but have not heard back.

Some readers of AsAmNews are asking for an apology from the companies.

“Walmart and all retailers need to realize should Asians react as a group to stop spending our money with them and with their competitors, it could result in negative financial consequences,” said Harvey Eng. “Issue an apology or Asians will shop elsewhere. Social media is how the message will spread throughout our communities.”

“Racism is not acceptable and we should do what it takes to get a genuine apology, including speaking with media and pressuring them with a boycott,” said Mat Matsunaga.

AsAmNews has also not heard back from the distributor, Giant Kids World. The item however does not appear on its website.

This morning we also reached out to David and Goliath Apparel Company, the manufacturer of the product.

We’ll let you know what any of these companies say, if anything at all.

“Don’t stop hounding them please,” urged Robert Tan to AsAmNews. “Thanks for your great work for the community!”

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